N1H1 influenza virus is a virus that attacks the human immune system and can cause serious secondary diseases. In extreme cases it can be fatal. This flu gets its name from a type of flu virus that affects pigs. Of course N1H1 virus resembles that of the one that infects swine. The abbreviation H1N1 is the official World Health Organization (WHO) name for the virus and is derived from the medical terms hemaglutinin type 1 and neuraminidase type 1.

There was a misconception that people could catch swine influenza virus through the consumption of pork and whilst the name is derived from the animal, well cooked pork products are safe.

Pig influenza virus is transmitted in the same fashion as any other type of influenza virus. You can contract the virus from contaminated utensils, particles in the room, direct contact with an infected person or their belongings. Due to this fact, it isn’t enough to simply wear a face mask alone – you should vigorously wash your hands often so you do not contract the virus. Swine influenza can stay on clothing for over 11 hours and on hard surfaces for about 48 hours. The normal emphasis on face masks is because you can avoid touching objects but you cannot refrain from breathing the air that surrounds you.

If someone has pig flu they will show the symptoms of regular influenza. These people will display fever and sore throat. They may not be able to breathe properly and will have a severe headache. In the majority of cases, they will feel cool and clammy and may vomit.

For ems staff in endemic areas or in areas where they will be working in close proximity with affected persons, an N95 mask will provide the best protection from airborne contamination as it has tiny fibers to sieve off the virus.

Since flu virus is primarily spread through the air, overcrowding should be mitigated in those areas where there are reported cases. If you aren’t part of the emergency response you should stay away from such places.

There are many kinds of face masks used to prevent contamination. The kind you choose will depend on your situation and how comfortable you will be in using one. You can go for the design that has two straps for attachment to the head. There are also those with an adjustable nose bridge. There is yet another one that has a one way valve to enable you to breathe more easily. Another type has a pair of ear loops.

There are numerous ways to flu virus. The most common way is with the use of retro viral medications such as Tamiflu. Most victims recover without the need for an kind of medication at all. Serious efforts are being made to develop a vaccination so people can be protected effectively, but that might take a year or two, as research is still ongoing.

In the event of pig flu epidemic, you should stay calm and keep yourself abreast of government updates. Follow any instructions given by the health officials and stay away from crowded places.